Business Awards – recognition of creative industries

The following text is from the article that appeared in The Courier on 15 April 2014 by Matthew Dixon

TWO new categories will lead to a wider range of entrants in this years CGU Commerce Ballarat Business Excellence Awards.

The newly introduced Creative Industries Award will profile local talent in the design and performing arts industries, while the community and government award will highlight organisations that link industry to the community.

Photographer and filmmaker Michelle Dunn is one local business owner who will be entering the awards for the first time.

“I was going to enter last year but I wasn’t sure what category I fitted into,” she said.

“It is kind of exciting and it opens it up outside to the conventional ideas of business.”

Ms Dunn also admitted she had nominated another business for the awards, which are held in August.

Commerce Ballarat Chair Andrew Rowan said a review of the awards took place each year, which was one of the key reasons for the introduction of the new categories.

Businesses can nominate themselves or others by downloading the Commerce Ballarat app or by visiting www.commerceballarat.com.au.

“I just got my wedding photos and video back from Michelle and Alison. They blew me away. I cannot recommend these girls enough. They made my day so special in every way. They accommodated my every need and made me feel so relaxed. Even when I had a “moment” Michelle was there to make it all better. The video made me cry and the photos are out of this world. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you have done for me! X”

Caz & Andrew 02/2013

“Loved this workshop for many reasons – thoroughly enjoyed the philosophy through to the technical approach”

J.Osborn, 2014

I just wanted to drop you a line and say a massive thanks for the photo course just gone.
14 years ago myself and hubby went to Tasmania, and I was so upset that I didn’t get a single ‘good’ photo. This time around, armed with your advice, I’m pleased to report that I have a bucket load of good photos!! It was a joy to take the holiday, knowing that I had a reasonable chance of capturing the shot I wanted. So again, thank you. I really enjoyed the sessions and the proof is in the photos from the last three weeks.

Emily C

Amazing wedding photographer!! Michelle is one of our favourite things about that day. She was so fun and chilled and worked in with everyone so well. We loved the final result. The photos were very candid and captured moments we didn’t get to see. She understands her role in the day and kept us all on time and relaxed. Love your work!

Madi & Peter

“These look fantastic! Thank you so much!! She is a truly inspirational person and it really shows through in these photos.”

Victoria Richards, Vision Australia 01/2012

“This has been a thoroughly fantastic course. You have a very good manner & patience… I have learnt a lot of practical skills which is why I enrolled in the first place. Thank you.”